Loch of Kinnordy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Loch of Kinnordy |
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Sunset over Loch of Kinnordy
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| Location | Angus, Scotland |
| Nearest city | Kirriemuir |
| Area | 0.85 km2 (0.33 sq mi) |
| Established | 1994 |
| Governing body | Joint Nature Conservation Committee |
The Loch of Kinnordy is a small lake found just west of Kirriemuir in Angus, Scotland. It's a really important home for lots of different wildlife. The lake itself is about 22 hectares big. That's like 22 football fields! Including the wet areas around it, like fens and swamps, a total of 85 hectares are protected. This area is known as a Ramsar Site because it's so special for nature.
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Discover the Amazing Wildlife at Loch Kinnordy
The Loch of Kinnordy is a 'eutrophic' loch. This means it has lots of nutrients, which helps many plants and animals grow. It's a perfect spot for rare wetland plants and birds that travel long distances.
Birds: A Feathered Paradise
Loch of Kinnordy is super important for birds. Huge numbers of greylag geese spend their winters here. About 1% of all greylag geese from Iceland come to this loch! You can also see many Black-headed gulls, pink-footed geese, water rails, and whooper swans. These birds come here in numbers that are important for all of Scotland.
Other Wonderful Animals
It's not just birds that love Loch of Kinnordy! You might also spot playful otters. Look closely in the trees for busy red squirrels. In warmer months, the air is filled with beautiful butterflies and amazing dragonflies. It's a busy place with lots of life!
Protecting This Special Place
Loch of Kinnordy is recognized as a very important place for nature. It has a few special titles to help protect it:
Ramsar Site: A Wetland of Global Importance
The loch is known as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. This is an agreement between countries to protect wetlands because they are so important for wildlife and the environment.
Special Protection Area
It's also a Special Protection Area. This means it's a protected place especially for wild birds and their habitats. It helps make sure birds have safe places to live, feed, and raise their young.
Site of Special Scientific Interest
Loch of Kinnordy is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This title is given to areas in the UK that have special plants, animals, or geology. It means the area is protected because of its unique natural features.
Visiting the Loch: A Nature Reserve
The RSPB helps look after the loch and the area around it as a nature reserve. They have made it easy for people to visit and enjoy nature. There's a car park, and special hides where you can watch the birds without disturbing them. There's even a bird-feeding station, which helps you get a closer look at some of the feathered visitors!
